1949-2024
For 75 years, we have been a pillar of inspiration and service, weaving a rich tapestry of education, entertainment, and patriotic celebration. Through our diverse array of classes, we have empowered individuals of all ages to learn, grow, and discover new horizons. From skill-building workshops to enrichment courses, our commitment to lifelong learning has nurtured the intellectual and creative capacities of our community.
In addition to our educational endeavors, our nonprofit has proudly taken center stage, captivating audiences with shows that entertain, enlighten, and elevate the human spirit. Whether through theatrical performances, musical spectacles, or cultural exhibitions, we have strived to bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and shared experience.
As we celebrate 75 years as a community-based nonprofit, we also honor our military heritage with dedicated celebrations that pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country. Through these military commemorations, we stand as a bridge between the past and present, ensuring that the sacrifices of our servicemen and women are never forgotten, and their stories continue to inspire generations to come.
The War Memorial's 75th Anniversary
A Legacy of Patriotism, Culture, and Community
Our History
The origins of The War Memorial began in 1910 when the historic home, “The Moorings,” was built for industrialist Russell A. Alger, Jr. and his family. The spacious Italian Renaissance-style villa and expansive gardens were designed by New York architect Charles A. Platt, with particular attention to blending indoor and outdoor living seamlessly and harmoniously. In 1919, renowned landscape designer Ellen Biddle Shipman contributed additional landscaping, further enhancing the estate's beauty. “The Moorings” has been designated a Michigan Historic Site and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
For two decades after its completion, “The Moorings” was the cherished family homestead for Russell A. Alger, Jr., his wife Marion, and their children, Josephine, Fay, and Russell III. The home was a backdrop to many remarkable stories, from thrilling airplane flights to hosting famous inventors, politicians, and other prominent figures of the day. Today, historic tours are available for those interested in learning more about the amazing stories of the family that first lived in the house now known as The War Memorial.
After Russell’s death in 1930, Marion moved out and deeded the estate to the Detroit Institute of Arts, who used it as their popular annex beginning May of 1936. The estate reverted to her in June of 1948 once the annex was no longer being subsidized by the city of Detroit. In March of 1949, Marion deeded the estate to The Grosse Pointe War Memorial Association with the mission to serve as a memorial to the 3,500 Grosse Pointers who served and the 126 who died in World War II, including Henry Chaney, Jr., the Alger’s grandson. Her desire was for it to also serve as a continuing center for the educational, cultural, and charitable activities of the community.
The War Memorial's mission is to honor those who served, enrich our community, and deliver exceptional experiences. Currently, The War Memorial works with over 70 partner organizations and collaborators and serves an estimated 150,000 individuals with over 3,000 functions annually, including programs to honor veterans, engagement experiences for adults and children, community events and celebrations, and premier hospitality services.
As we celebrate our 75th year, we continue to be a center of experience and education, and a regional driver of arts, learning, patriotism, hospitality, and connectivity.
Our Mission
The War Memorial is a unique, dynamic and forward-thinking hub for southeast Michigan with a mission to honor those who served, enrich our community, and deliver exceptional experiences
The War Memorial is charged with the responsibility of responding to the ever-changing needs of the community. It remains steadfast in its quest to keep pace and tailor itself to the community’s needs; but at the same time, maintain the character and purpose of those who founded it in 1949.
Support our Impact
Generations of families have passed through our doors to participate in the arts, celebrate life events, enrich their minds, and learn more about themselves, our history and the world. Your can learn more about our ongoing campaigns and funds to support the veterans, children’s programming, our historic Alger House, or on general operating endowment funds by clicking here.
The War Memorial is a community nonprofit organization which proudly serves the Southeastern Michigan and continues to remain an experiential place for everyone from everywhere through a wide offering of classes, activities, and events. Our growing regional ecosystem with over 65 partners and collaborators augments our offerings encompassing a diverse dialogue of activities, audiences and opportunities. These programs and services are only possible because of your donations. Your support makes a difference.
Our Events and Stories
During our 75th anniversary year, we will be bringing back some of our popular events from the past, while introducing new twists on old favorites. On top of that, we want to hear from you! Tell us how The War Memorial has impacted your life over the past 75 years. Come back to this page frequently to see new stories that have been told, updates on 75th anniversary events, and much more!
Share Your Stories
